Allen, an unrestricted free agent, has spent his entire career with the Celtics since being drafted in 2004. He excelled this postseason as a defensive stopper and played a critical role in containing Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, and Dwyane Wade.

Allen told WEEI.com during the playoffs that he would like to return to the Celtics next season … and beyond.

‘I am a Celtic,’ he said. ‘I love being a Celtic. It’d mean everything in the world [return next season].’

He added, ‘I mean, things happen but I feel like I’m going to be a Celtic for life.’

Should Allen sign elsewhere, his departure would leave a huge gap in the Celtics second unit as the organization looks to rebuild its bench this summer.